Differences in Factory Front Coil Springs for 1500s?

[DENALIHD66]

I was wondering if there are different front coils that come with the 1500 trucks? I think in previous years the Z71 springs were 1" taller, or had different spring rates. I have the Max Trailering package that shows me to have thicker rear springs, but nothing different about the front coils.

 

A gripe I have about the current coil springs is that they are very rough on the ride. They seem to be more for carrying weight as opposed to supporting weight and assisting in cushioning the ride. I feel like a spring that has a lot more coils in it would yield a much smoother, controlled ride. Kind of like the springs that come with the Fox 2.0 shocks. I notice that the springs on the newer F150s have a few more twists in them as well (though I don't have much experience as to how well they ride).

 

Best combination for the new trucks would be air ride (The Ram's ride is amazing by comparison).

[Eddie 70]

<p>I've got the max towing option also and thought it rides pretty harshly also. Like you I have always thought it was the front springs that make it this way. From what I understand there are different spring rates for the front suspension. I just got new bilsteins delivered Saturday for the front to replace a leaker. I've searched and there doesn't seem to be very many options for factory ride height springs. A set of progressive springs would be nice.</p>

[dcarl]

I'm not sure about spring rates, but I've got the Z71 package that came with the Rancho shocks and I thought it rode pretty harsh for my standards coming from a 2001 Denali XL. I installed a set of Bilstein 5100 shocks on all four corners and the ride is somewhere between the Denali and what it was with the Ranchos so I'm satisfied with the results considering its a truck.

[DENALIHD66]

I mean at the end of the day it IS a truck, but I just want to go with the best combination of comfort and control. The OEM shocks don't give much of either, however I'd rate them moderate at handling turns.

 

I intend on running Bilstein 5100s all around with the fronts on the 1.8" level. Also going to put a set of sulastic shackles on the rear leafs and 33" tires.

 

I've driven the Denalis with magnetic shocks but not in enough conditions to know whether they are worth it or not. Like is there any comparison between the magnaride and Bilsteins, or the magnaride and Fox 2.0s?

[LongrangeLauber]

I will have to say my buddies both have the new F150's and they feel like you're riding on a cloud. But I know when I hook my truck up to a trailer I don't have to worry about turbos losing boost and the truck not sagging too bad lol

[DENALIHD66]

Yeah I've driven the fully loaded Ram 1500 with air suspension and it was the smoothest riding vehicle I've ever driven, let alone smoothest truck ride. But I want a real shifter and don't want my body panels to rust through after 3 years. Also they put plastic trim in their wheels which is extra cheap and gaudy.